Nobel Peace Prize awarded to activist leader in hiding

Venezuela's Maria Corina Machado is hailed as one of the 'courageous defenders of freedom who rise and resist'

- TARA COBHAM

Maria Corina Machado, who has become a symbol of resistance in the face of growing authoritarianism in Venezuela, has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

The opposition leader was forced into hiding and banned from running for office by the administration of President Nicolas Maduro. But her fearless campaigns and rock-star appeal have made her an incredibly popular politician in her country - and led her to beat US president Donald Trump in winning this year's honour.

When her win was announced yesterday, the activist was lauded for being a “key, unifying figure in a political opposition that was once deeply divided - an opposition that found common ground in the demand for free elections and representative government”.

Jorgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, added: “In the past year, Ms Machado has been forced to live in hiding. Despite serious threats against her life, she has remained in the country, a choice that has inspired millions. When authoritarians seize power, it is crucial to recognise courageous defenders of freedom who rise and resist.”

Ms Machado’s ally, Edmundo Gonzalez, who lives in exile in Spain, posted a video of himself speaking by phone with her after she received the news. “I am in shock,” Ms Machado said. “I cannot believe it.”